Dayana Harrison Birth Services

12/06/2025

Study session Saturday!
What else would you add to this?

Reposted from .pk
Original caption below.

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You’ve heard of it, but do you actually know what the placenta does? 👀
This one organ is your baby’s entire support system — and it’s kind of a big deal.
📌 Save this for later & share with another expecting mama 🤍

12/05/2025

12/05/2025

12/05/2025

12/04/2025

As women approach the menopause, their levels of the hormone oestrogen fluctuate and start to drop. As levels become unstable, women can experience a range of symptoms, such as hot flushes, night sweats, anxiety and joint pain.

Women without a womb can take oestrogen alone, while those with a womb need both (oestrogen and progestogen) to protect against cancer of the womb lining.

But hormone therapy isn’t without risks. A recent review of 24 studies involving 45,660 participants examined its long-term effects on women’s health. Here’s what it found:

▪️ There were different effects between women taking combined hormone therapy (both oestrogen and progestogen) or oestrogen alone.
▪️ Oestrogen‐only hormone therapy probably makes little to no difference to coronary events, and probably increases the risk of stroke and gallbladder disease. It probably makes little to no difference in the risk of breast cancer, and probably reduces the risk of all fractures.
▪️ Combined hormone therapy may increase the risk of thromboembolism and probably increases the risk of breast cancer.

Read more: https://www.cochranelibrary.com/cdsr/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD004143.pub6/full

12/04/2025

An updated Cochrane review has found that calcium supplementation during pregnancy does not reduce the risk of pre-eclampsia — a serious condition that can be life-threatening for both mother and baby.

For years, calcium was recommended as a preventive measure, especially in populations with low calcium intake. But this updated review, based on 10 large trials and over 37,000 participants, shows no significant benefit.

These findings challenge current guidelines and emphasize the need for rigorous, trustworthy evidence in maternal health.

Read more: https://www.cochrane.org/about-us/news/new-evidence-questions-benefit-calcium-supplements-pregnancy-preventing-pre-eclampsia

12/03/2025

Purpose To determine tocopherol and fat content of Greek mother’s milk during the first 6 months of exclusive breastfeeding and correlate with maternal diet characteristics. Methods Milk samples and dietary records were obtained by mothers at 1st (n = 64), 3rd (n = 39) and 6th (n = 23) month postp...

11/28/2025

Anterior placentas

The placenta is an incredible organ, belonging to both you and your baby. It's the only transient organ in the human body, meaning that it grows and stays temporarily, leaving once it's fulfilled its purpose. Connected to your baby by the umbilical cord, it releases hormones which help your baby to grow, while also supplying them with nutrients and oxygen. The placenta is also responsible for carrying waste products, such as carbon dioxide, back to your bloodstream to be disposed of.

The placenta develops wherever the fertilised egg embeds into your uterus. Your sonographer will check the position of your placenta during your 20-week scan, to ensure its position won't affect your pregnancy. An anterior placenta simply means your placenta is attached to the front wall of your uterus, between the baby and your tummy. It's a completely normal place for it to implant and develop. It isn't connected to having a low-lying placenta (called placenta previa) and it shouldn't cause you problems.

Although feeling movement can be trickier for anterior placenta mums, your baby should still develop regularity to their movement. If you feel as though your baby's movements have slowed down or stopped, it's important not to assume your placenta is the reason. Call your midwife or maternity unit straight away if you have any concerns.

11/27/2025

My heart is overflowing with gratitude.

To the midwives who welcomed me into sacred birth spaces…

To the families who trusted me to witness their most vulnerable, powerful moments…

To my mentors who poured into me with patience and wisdom…
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To my peers who reminded me I’m not alone in this calling…




To the birthworkers, doulas, preceptors, nurses, educators, friends, and loved ones across the globe…
Thank you.

You have taught me more than textbooks ever could about presence, resilience, reverence, and the deep honor of bearing witness to birth; and have support me tremendously and in ways I cannot express.

I carry your lessons in my hands, your stories in my heart, and your kindness in the way I care.

May this path continue to be guided by grace, gratitude, and the spirit of service.

May this day be feel of joy, gratitude and thanksgiving for you all.

Blessings,
Your Future Midwife

11/27/2025